Pottery has always been an art and science of the earth. Foraging for local clays begins a conversation with our local landscape. Through observation and experimentation our appreciation deepens for the unique histories and personalities of the minerals in our hands.

This two day intro explores the complex chemistry and creativity of working with wild clays of the Pacific Northwest and how to integrate them into your pottery practice.

Saturday August 9th and Sunday August 10th from 10-4pm

We will spend the first day in the foothills around Portland, meeting the young subsoils formed from Columbia River Basalts and learning about the unique geology of the Portland Basin. We will discuss foraging, processing, clay bodies, blending and more! The Portland area geology, as well as recently industrial history has limited the clay resources of the region, so it is important to know that while some foraging is possible in the area, this workshop will focus on applying this knowledge to the Pacific Northwest as well.

Workshop cost is $285.

This workshop is taking place on the unceded indigenous lands of Multnomah, Wasco, Cowlitz, Kathlamet, Clackamas, Bands of Chinook, Tualatin Kalapuya, and Molalla. Understanding our materials as potters connects us intimately with the geologic, as well as peopled histories of these lands. It is our responsibility as guests in these places to come with respect and care for these histories and ecosystems, so that we are contributing to connection and protection and not perpetuating extraction and harm.

If you are Indigenous or Native American, Black, Latino/a/x/e, or someone of the global majority that has been prevented from connecting to, tending or protecting the land as a result of colonial oppression there is a 30% waived fee for participation in this workshop. Please email us to get the check out code!

Workshop Format

The first day will be at an outdoor foraging location just outside of Portland metro. We will:

• experience different clay personalities one finds when foraging,

• identify appropriate places for foraging,

• process clay for best handbuilding or wheel throwing results

• discuss the basics of blending theory, additives, and more

• blend and build a small wild clay bowl that will then be bisque fired and available to pick up two weeks later.

On our second day, back at Nola Clay, eastside Portland we will:

• discuss kiln firing protocols and techniques, as well as alternative firing methods

• explore the basics of natural glazes and slips

• make our own line blend glaze tests and glaze our handbuilt bowls from day one